Lymphedema Therapy How to Finally Get Some Relief From Your Pain
Lymphedema is caused when damage is done to the lymph vessels or nodes, and can develop after surgery or the formation of scar tissue, and in rare cases is caused by abnormalities in the lymph vessels at birth. If you're one of the people suffering from the effects of lymphedema, such as the buildup of lymph fluids in the body, then you're probably weighing your therapy options on the best treatment for it. Compression, massage, and a lymphedema pump, are all different types of lymphedema therapy that people are using to help get relief.
Compression on the affected areas of the body is a very common method of lymphedema therapy. It's a very common route because it is a simple, easier, and less costly than other methods. Compression involves wrapping bandages around the affected areas of the body. Where the lymph vessels are affected, several layers of gauzing are put underneath a lowstretch bandage. The bandage provides mild pressure on the area, and keeps swelling and skin hardening down.
Massage can be used in accord with other methods of therapy. A massage therapist that specializes in lymphedema treatment is great because they have been specially trained to do the massage correctly. The massage therapist will help promote the flow of the lymph from the affected areas through other vessels in the body. Massage therapy is great to use in tandem with the bandaging, because it doesn't hinder the effectiveness of the bandages, and is a non-invasive way to get relief from the symptoms.
The lymphedema pump is another method utilized by people who may have trouble getting to a massage therapist for treatment. The pump works by simulating the way the lymph would be pushed out of affected areas, and increases the flow of the fluid to the circulatory system. The pump, as with the massage, is very useful when added to a compression or wrapping therapy, because it can either be done in the home or done at a clinic or other professional setting.
If you are suffering from lymphedema, there are many ways for you to get relief from the swelling and infections. People choose many different types of therapy, sometimes choosing to do several at a time. It's best to consult with a doctor about what you can begin doing, and the proper ways to begin therapy. Depending on the severity of it, you may pick and choose between other methods of lymphedema therapy. Your doctor should be able to provide you with information about how much therapy and treatment you would need in order to return to your old self.
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